Undergraduate Advisors
How do I become an astronomy major or minor?
To become an astronomy major (or to add astronomy as your second major), you should first make an appointment with Chief Academic Advisor Todd Tripp. Prior to your first advising meeting, you should review the different tracks offered by the department and their requirements in advance. After you have your meeting with Professor Tripp, you will send the request to change your major. Please include whether you will make astronomy your first, second, or only major, and include the sub-plan that you will be following.
You can change majors or add a program, including an astronomy minor, any time during the semester. Consult the Astronomy Majors Handbook for more information.
Who is my academic dean?
If you have any academic issues outside the department requirements (e.g., academic probation, overload petition), you should see your college academic dean. You should contact the College of Natural Sciences academic advising office and make an appointment with them.
Where should I go to to discuss my GenEd and college requirements?
Your department advisor can share with you some general ideas, but you should really discuss topics on GenEd and college requirements with your advisors in the College of Natural Sciences academic advising office.
What should I do about the IE requirement?
The main IE course for astronomy majors is ASTRO 339, which is offered in the spring semester. Astrophysics BS track students must fulfill the IE requirement by taking Physics 440. Please see the UMass Gen Ed requirements page for more details.
Why can't I see the Five College courses in SPIRE?
Five College courses are outside the SPIRE's domain. You should find the Five College Course schedule on their website (search all "astronomy" courses). To register, follow the instructions available at the Five College Interchange.